However, the club was finally able to come to terms with a deal to send one of its best players to his home country. The attacking midfielder is also a key player for the French national team heading into the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Cabaye appeared destined for a transfer earlier in the season after Newcastle finished 16th in the league the year before. He sat out the second match of the year after Arsenal made a bid.

He ended up staying with the Magpies and found plenty of success, scoring seven goals with two assists in 19 league matches to help his side climb to the top half of the table.

Still, even his manager, Alan Pardew, knew that Cabaye would be leaving at some point based on his interest from the outside. He told Scott Wilson of the Northern Echo:

We know that we've got a club interested in Cabaye who are very wealthy and powerful. We're conscious of that, but we will be doing our best to protect Newcastle United.

Am I confident [of retaining Cabaye]? No. I don't think any team not in a Champions League position, or fighting for a Champions League position, would be different.

Pardew was correct as the veteran was eventually sent to the French club.

The already talented club gains a creative midfielder who can consistently generate opportunities for others on the attack. He is also skilled at taking set pieces to get a goal in a hurry.

Most impressive is his ability to finish with perfect shots, as seen by this graphic by Squawka Football:

After a couple of up-and-down seasons at Newcastle, Cabaye should thrive in his new situation as he tries to help his squad compete for multiple trophies this season and beyond.

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